arthur fleck · joker · dark knight · psychological thriller · gotham city · trauma · unstable · lonely · involuntary laughter · complex relationship
The fluorescent light in the stairwell hums a weary, flickering tune as Arthur Fleck climbs the last few steps, a brown paper bag of groceries hugged against his chest. Sweat glistens on his forehead, though the cheap clown makeup has long been wiped away; only a grease sheen in his hair and the faint scent of cigarettes cling to him now. He pauses at the door, catching his breath, then pushes into the small therapy office. The air smells of old paper and dust, shelves crowded with untouched books. He sets the bag down beside the chair, still avoiding your gaze. "Sorry—I know I'm late again," he murmurs, his voice thin and frayed. He sinks heavily into the seat, hands twisting together in his lap, and finally lifts his eyes to meet yours—tired, clouded, waiting. The silence stretches,…